VagnerTransport.net – Advice on Car Safety and Anything Automotive

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Which 2022 Hyundai models gained the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest accolade?

CHERY, China’s leading car exporter for the past seven years, and leading Australian car importer, Ateco, will concentrate on importing only one version of each of the three cars it offers to sell australia wide later this current year.

The approach is to import the highest specification of the three specification levels available in Chery vehicles sold in China to generate a strong value proposition while pitching prices against the lowest-price entries of competitors Down Under.

The businesses also want to maintain the model line-up simple for customer understanding of the value of the company and for simplicity in dealer operations.

The Australian line-up will start will three cars from Chery’s range of 28 different cars and commercials that are being churned out from factories soon to be effective at making 1 million vehicles a year – a 100 % increase on 2009 Chery production.

The general manager for first time ventures at Ateco Automotive, Dinesh Chinnappa, told journalists at Chery headquarters at Wuhu, near Shanghai, the task for Chery in Australia would not be picking the most suitable commercials and cars for Australia from Chery’s smorgasbord of 28 model lines ofvans and cars, people-movers, light trucks and pick-ups.

Chery2011 J1 center image From top: Chery A1 (J1), Chery A3 (J3), Chery Tiggo (J11).

Priorities in selecting these models will probably be customer safety and value and, from a dealer’s point of view, setting up a dollar and being viable.

Ateco’s business priority will be the volume potential of each model.

Mr Chinnappa said Ateco had already rejected certain vehicles in the Chery range because they were not viewed as suitable for Australia.

He said Chery “over a really short period of time will expand rapidly in Australia offering a full breadth of product including vans, pick-ups, SUVs and compact SUVs”.

“Product will not be a difficulty,” he stated. “Selecting the correct product would be the issue.”

Mr Chinnappa said he expected Chery to be bigger than Great Wall in Australia due to the breadth in the Chery range of products.

The first of the cars to be on sale australia wide in the third quarter would be the Chery J1 – a small five-door hatch with a 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual gearbox. No automatic can be obtained, which will limit the sales appeal in the J1.

Chery does not build automatic J1s for its home market, although automatic transmissions represent about 52 percent of the light segment.

Among the standard options that come with this Getz-like Chinese challenger are ABS, two airbags, power windows front and back, alloy wheels, central locking, adjustable steering and USB port.

The J11 SUV spec, which has been locked in during the past day or two by Ateco people seeing the Wuhu head office, may have a 2.-litre engine with both a five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmission.

It is front-wheel drive as well as two-wheel drive only. It will have twinairbags and ABS, electronic brake distribution, air conditioning, remote locking and alloy wheels. Electronic stability control to the J11 is under development.

Mr Chinnappa said that initially the partners thought the J11 would target the Kia Sportage and the Hyundai Tucson in the compact SUV segment but the two models “have moved away” from where the J11 will likely be positioned.

“Tuscon has moved upstream and gone on the Sportage and ix35 will soon follow. So, there is no mass market product which I am familiar with that occupies that space,” he was quoted saying.

“It is a big segment and, of the two vehicles J11 and J1, we really view a decent volume opportunity with J11 due to healthy measurements of the segment. So, of the two, it will enjoy the strongest volume proposition.?, the J11 will be the biggest volume opportunity of the two because?

The J3, a Corolla-like Chinese car, is a recent iteration for Chery and was designed with all the European market in mind, meaning getting it past the Australian Design Rule (ADR) homologations process will probably be much faster plus a simpler process for Ateco.

Mr Chinnappa said: “Chery has done almost all their development work and all their testing around the J3 to ECE standards so 85 per cent of the work is performed to migrate from ECE to ADR.”

A manual J3 will likely be launched into the small-car segment three to four months after the J11 and J1.

Continuously variable automatic transmission developed in-house by Chery will appear about 2-3 months in to the program, while the J3 initially will have a five-speed manual. The engine will be Chery’s 1.6 litre petrol unit.

Chery started life as an engine manufacturer instead of a car-maker, and engines are made to Chery designs and made in Wuhu.

The J3 will come with four airbags as standard – two front and two side bags in the seats (not curtain). Electronic stability control will be standard from the first day.

It will be fully specced with power windows, power mirrors, remote ABS, alloy and locking wheels. Final spec will be decided closer to launch.

Mr Chinnappa reiterated that, as far as possible, would be no cross-over with Great Wall dealers having the Chery franchise as well.

“There will be 40-50 dealers from launch using a metropolitan bias because the Chery models are passenger vehicles.” Great Wall carries a rural bias because of the pinpoint the pick-up.

“The going-in position is that if you are a Great Wall dealer you cannot have Chery about the same site. In certain small rural markets that can be impossible because there will simply not enough dealers to represent the franchises,” he was quoted saying.

“We are doing that for all the obvious reasons: maximize penetration, minimalise cannibalisation that will create the greatest degree of separation within the brand,” Mr Chinnappa said.

Most of the selection process for Chery dealers was done at the time Ateco was selecting dealers for Great Wall.

Equally, Ateco is running two separate distribution and marketing management teams and organisations for Chery and Great Wall.

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ITALIAN automaker Alfa Romeo has announced modest plans for its neighbouring country’s annual motor show, the Salon International de l’Auto in Geneva.

It makes no mention of the widely rumoured, mid-engined ‘4C’ sportscar concept, rather focusing on a mild MY2011 update to the MiTo and further promoting the Giulietta plus the debut in those cars of Fiat Group’s Blue&Me-TomTom integrated sat-nav technology.

Alfa says the modestly modified MiTo will offer you “new exterior colours and new fabrics for the interiors, the accessibility to new options and the creation of technologies to improve comfort and driving feel”.

It is set to arrive in Australia in the third quarter this season, and will be showcased at Geneva in hot 135kW QV form, fitted with two-tone black and white carbon and alloys-fibre-backed Sabelt sports seats.

Joining the MiTo QV will be a 99kW MiTo fitted with the TCT gearbox and exhibiting Alfa’s new “Bronze Metal” colour scheme – which Australian Alfa importer Ateco has no wants to offer locally – complemented by a two-tone interior featuring black and bronze “Tecnosilk” upholstery.

Representing the Giulietta hatch will the 1 and QV.4 TB variants, the latter sporting the TCT twin-clutch automatic transmission which will arrive Down Under on 1.4 petrol and two.-litre diesel Giuliettas in July.

Alfa Romeo2011 MiTo center imageTop: Alfa Romeo MiTo. Bottom: Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

Blue&Me-TomTom can be a development of the Alfa’s existing Bluetooth-based smartphone integration system, extended to use TomTom’s portable touch-screen satellite navigation units.

A cradle with in-built battery charging terminals emanates from your centre in the MiTo or Giulietta’s dash to accept the 4.3-inch screen TomTom unit, which in addition to providing traditional navigation capability, can offer control of telephone, media player and trip computer functions via Bluetooth.

As an example, the telephone keypad can be replicated on the touchscreen display for easier dialling, as can stored phone contacts and the contents of MP3 players – including iPods – connected via the car’s USB port.

Control is also possible via Alfa’s standard Blue&Me steering wheel buttons and voice commands.

A further feature of the system is designed to help drivers achieve greater fuel economy by displaying fuel consumption levels and offering driving suggestions like when to change gear or appropriate acceleration for the programmed route. In addition, it will automatically direct the driver towards the nearest petrol station once the fuel level reaches reserve.

Adding to the navigation function is “IQ route” technology, which calculates the best route for a given date and time according to traffic statistics.

The TomTom unit also can download map updates and software upgrades when connected to the Internet via a computer using an Alfa-customised application that also feeds inside the location of Alfa Romeo service centres.

Alfa Romeo Australia public affairs manager Edward Rowe told GoAuto that MiTos and Giuliettas delivered from Q3 this year will feature the Blue&Me-TomTom cradle as standard but since the TomTom device itself is an aftermarket item, pricing can not be confirmed.

Once they become available mr Rowe did however point out that existing those who own TomTom devices will be able to rely on them with suitably-equipped Alfas.

While Alfa Romeo has been keeping quiet on the subject, speculation abounds that it intending to unveil a “4C” sportscar concept built using lightweight materials driving the rear wheels with a mid-mounted four-cylinder engine from the Giulietta QV.

The rumour-mill also suggests that instead of being a Brera or Spider replacement, chances are it will be a limited-run halo model in the spirit of – but less expensive than – the 8C supercar which it will herald a new design direction for that Italian marque.

Last year at Geneva, Alfa Romeo sportscar concepts came in the form of Pininfarina’s 2uettottanta and Bertone’s Pandion. In 2009 Alfa proffered a MiTo GTA prototype powered by what later became the Giulietta QV’s 1750cc engine.

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Now, for the most part we all know of the name that is Volkswagen, and the heritage that proceeds it. Names like the Beetle, the Type 2 Panel Van, or the Thing are virtually embedded in our minds at all times. Nowadays, we look at Volkswagens, and see smooth lines, innovative designs, and classic bodies that have withstood the test of time.

Volkswagen-Design_Vision_GTI_Concept_2013_2 Well, right with the very end of 2013, Volkswagen has once again found a way to not simply blow our minds, as well as keep us drooling, and wanting more. Car which includes caught the eye of just about every VW fan across the globe. That’s the 2013 Volkswagen Vision GTI Concept.

The VW Vision GTI Concept is something that was created to keep people interested in the company that is VW. It’s an auto that has been designed around the current 7th Generation VW Golf, and by the looks of things, it’s a stunning looking vehicle to behold. The eyes will come across that ultra mean, and overly sinister front fascia, if we can begin with the very flawless outside of the Vision GTI. There’s no real denying this car will be all Volkswagen with this sneaky looking grille staring you in the face. If you take a step back, and allow your eyes to soak in more of this GTI based concept, you’ll notice that this GTI is slightly wider than your standard model. This nuance, in conjunction with a wider front, and rear track width, not to mention the entire ride height has been lowered a touch, provides for a much more aggressive stance than before. This GTI concept is sporting 20 inch wheels in all four corners, with 8.5 inch wides in the front, and 9.5 inch wides in the back, this is a road hugging, traction hog.

The designers inside the VW camp kept several things in mind whilst building this awesome Volkswagen-Design_Vision_GTI_Concept_2013_1car. One, this can be a Volkswagen. Two, this is a Golf GTI. Three, this is a racing car, and lastly, this car is freaking amazing! !! Those key factors were a constant reminder when the power plant just for this beast was being considered. Your normal VW Golf GTI, carries a four cylinder engine that puts out around 230Hp, respectively, and puts down roughly 200lb feet of torque to the wheels. This is in it’s well known FWD configuration needless to say. The Volkswagen Vision GTI Concept has simply trumped those numbers. Under the smooth as glass hood, lies a Dual Turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine that’s churning out 496Hp, and 413lb feet of asphalt churning torque through all four of it’s wheels. And it’s pissed off as you dropped Grape Kool-Aid on it’s pristine White finish, this is such as an R32 on steroids. The patented VW DSG Dual Clutch transmission ensures that each wheel remains well planted to the ground it treads upon.

Now, being that this Is simply a concept, most of the details have already been left up to speculation, and grandeur, but nonetheless you can imagine every one of the racing style, bespoke qualities that the interior could possibly hold for someone fortunate enough to own one of these awesome cars. Pending if it goes into production. Well, one thing’s for sure the inside as well as the exterior is all GTI. So, while it’s truly a vision to behold, you can anticipate some of that good old fashion, minimalist styling cues to fall set up in this concept. As a matter of fact, you can see within the pics that this GTI includes optional driving modes, a push to get started on button, and in many cases some racing goodies for those intentional track days we long for in our lives. The GTI Vision Concept has been geared to racing so heavily that as it stands, there is no back seat. Simply a very bold, and somewhat overwhelming X brace which includes assured you that the strength in this car is unparallelled. Dude, not many tuner shops could have put together this concept. It’s just so Bad Ass.

Well, let me end this segment with this thought if you don’t mind. I am just a true Volkswagen-Design_Vision_GTI_Concept_2013_rearVolkswagen fan, and love the brand dearly, plus love to observe how they like to improve themselves in the interests of the passion for their adoring fans around the globe. With that said, this GTI Vision Concept is really a car that needs to be made. Made in either a limited amount, or you have to have one, sign the line, and we’ll get it for your needs in about 3 weeks form of deal, while not mass produced. This concept is among those cars that should not remain an idea, and should be seen by the local skate park, or sitting at a booth participating in the 2014 SEMA Show. This car shouldn’t be a part of any world tour, rather it needs to be in a garage where is can be seen. It could be driven out slowly onto that 30 foot black asphalt driveway, and then hosed down with warm water, and soap just because you know it is possible. It must be a conversational piece, then become the main cause of many successful One Night Stands. I’ve said enough about this car. How about you chime in, and inform us what you think about this? Hit us up within the comment box below.

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The value of becoming carbon green and friendly driving has never been more relevant. It’s approximately we all to accomplish our bit and assist to save this fragile planet we call home – polluting the climate in giant gas guzzlers has stopped being acceptable and even drivers of giant gas guzzlers have to do their bit towards helping to make sure that their gas guzzlers guzzle even that little less gas than usual (this really is starting to think that some of those tongue twisters).

Including the most unfriendly of motors can be made that little friendlier by following these green driving tips which not just help the environment in addition they help your bank balance.

• Be smooth and steady – everything you do quickly and abruptly uses up more fuel, that’s the simplest way to consider it. Accelerate slowly and steadily, decrease and speed up carefully and gradually – abrupt stopping and starting means your car engine has got to work even harder than normal which all takes additional fuel.

• Throw out the clutter – the heavier your automobile the greater number of fuel it will take to make it move, makes sense really. Do you will need to carry your group of golf clubs wherever you go in case you can nip off through the office for the hour? No, I didn’t think so. Every pound of additional weight is ballast which just means you are burning more fuel to hold it.

• Reduce the resistance – air resistance that is. In case you are still driving around with all the luggage box about the car roof through your road trip last spring then remove it, the bike racks too from your cycling weekend three months ago. Streamlining your ride helps to minimize the resistance and save on fuel.

• Close your windows – and your sunroof if you are driving at speeds in excess of 40 mph – it’s this type of drag and drag uses fuel.

• Try walking once in a while – too many people go into the habit of hopping in the car to drive across the block for a bottle of milk. Short and non-urgent trips ought to be enjoyed on foot or by bicycle as an alternative to contributing to the stress and pollution of the friendly neighborhood traffic jam. Move out and walk, you never know, it might catch on.

• Keep things working well – a nicely maintained vehicle is actually a fuel efficient vehicle so it is essential that you look at your oil levels, tire pressures, battery etc once in a while to ensure that all things are working as it will.

• Protect your vehicle from extreme temperatures – don’t just snuggle down in your cozy bed, get the car an insulating blanket for the frosty nights too. This can help your engine to achieve the maximum fuel efficiency sooner another morning; you won’t need to leave the engine running for 30 minutes before everything is warmed up sufficiently for that drive around the block.

There are several great cost effective motors offered at fairviewford.com which can assist you to spend less on your gas guzzler but even if you are a gas guzzler form of guy then the following tips can help you to become that little bit greener. Explore the deals at http://fairviewford.com and discover what takes your fancy. There’s certain to be something there which really catches your eye and remember – follow these driving tips to help lessen the carbon emissions of the chosen motor, whatever which might be.

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Here we are again people, with another quick and informative update on some of the new cars that will, or should be heading to the Geneva Auto Show. We’re going to briefly discuss two entries that for the most part, are on two complete, and total opposite sides of the driving platform.

Gearheads.org First up, we have what I like to call the Mustang’s posh English cousin, the Aston Martin Vantage. Now I know that many of you primp, and proper distinguished gentleman drivers out there, would most likely beg to differ, but I do see some similarities, as vague as they may be, but we’ll save that comparison for another day.

Anyway, there’s a new Aston Martin Vantage that will be making it’s presence known to those very few people who are willing to own one of these pristine gems of excellence. The 2015 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430 is a car that has been purely developed on the race track, for the sole sake of making it a better street car. It seems like when AM does it, it’s extra, “special”, although it’s not a foreign concept I know. The V8 Vantage N430 has the look of a race car, that has just been from the detail shop, and is now going to strut it’s stuff down Rodeo Drive, on it’s way to Starbucks. Two tone paint work, Graphite colored wheels, and matching calipers are what signify that this car means business, and what’s under the hood will surely back that up. The V8 Vantage’s long hood keeps a low mid-mounted, 4.7L, quad overhead cam, dry-sumped V8 engine that boasts over 440Hp, and married to that mill is a seven speed automated manual transmission. Because we all know that electronic shifting makes the drive that much better. SMH.

As I mentioned previously, Aston Martin spared no expense in spending day after day at Lawrence Germanthe track making sure that this new model would be something that the masses wanted to have in their car park. So much so, that they even tested, and made sure that the optional audio system wouldn’t be drowned out by the perfectly tuned exhaust system that was installed underneath the Vantage. I’m just kidding, you know good, and well that no one plays music whilst testing on the track. But the N430 will have the optional Bang & Olufsen audio set up for those who actually want it in there. Pricing for the 2015 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430 will sit around $110,000 USD, or $89,000 RRP respectively, and it will become available September of this year.

Our other contestant in this segment is a car that is completely on the other side of the driving spectrum. The 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTE Plug-in Hybrid, is the latest entry from the VW Group that is a part of a growing line of alternative fuel driving machines. If you hadn’t already noticed is a Golf that specifically follows a very historic Volkswagen GT line, to start, the GTE. As inGTD and GTi, and now GTE. Whilst utilizing the current Mk7 Golf platform, the new 2015 GTE boasts a dual power plant system that will enable over 530 miles of driving in one shot. Here’s what’s under the bonnet. A 1.4L, four cylinder, turbocharged 148Hp engine, and a 101Hp electric engine which can be used in conjunction, or separately. If the driver wants to use electric power only, they could travel just over 80 miles, at which point the gas engine kicks in and continues the journey for the driver. Like all current VW’s, the DSG six speed transmission helps translate any, and all of that power into a modest 225 foot pounds of torque to the wheels.

Aside from the marvelous drive train, and power source, the looks of the 2015 VW Golf GTE are as Bad Ass as usual. You get my drift, even though there is nothing more brilliant to look at than this car, well except for a Veneno, or a Mustang. Smooth, and refined body lines promote better, and even more fuel efficient driving. Volkswagen made sure that keeping the Golf looking kind of mean looking, would still pan out for those people who to want to help the world, and save money. LED lighting, big wheels, curvy lines, and the unmistakable taillights keep you wanting to admire the German craftsmanship that sits before you.

The interior of the 2015 VW Golf GTE, is, or has been designed in a nostalgic Volkswagen-Golf_GTE_2015_interiorthrowback style of the old school Mk2 Golf GTi, and I’m loving every piece of it. Inside you’ll find the Black, and White plaid format plastered on the seats, and seat backs, of the new GTE. Along with that, the center dash has a 6.5 inch touch screen that not only keeps the driver abreast of what’s going with the car’s driving systems, but also it controls the kick ass infotainment system as well. Will come fully equipped with loads more goodies, but as I mentioned before this was supposed to be brief, as it stands the VW Golf GTE. Just be on the look out for a more in depth look at both look at both of these vehicles in the future if anything. And coming information about the 2014 Geneva Auto Show, as well as more up. So until the next one folks, be safe, and have fun, and Thanks for Reading.

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